Former President Donald Trump has voiced strong objections to ABC’s decision to reinstate late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, labeling the comedian’s program as a “Democrat GARBAGE” and an “arm of the DNC.” Trump’s public denouncement, made via his Truth Social platform, included veiled threats of further action against the network, drawing parallels to past legal disputes that resulted in significant financial settlements.
Trump’s Fiery Condemnation of Kimmel’s Comeback
Following the news that “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” would resume its broadcast on September 23, 2025, after a week-long suspension, Donald Trump took to social media to express his disbelief. “I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back,” Trump declared, asserting that he had been informed by ABC that the show was, in fact, “cancelled.” He characterized Kimmel’s comedic talent as non-existent and his show as a ratings failure that jeopardizes the network. “Why would they want someone back who does so poorly, who’s not funny, and who puts the Network in jeopardy by playing 99% positive Democrat GARBAGE,” Trump wrote. He went further, stating that Kimmel is “yet another arm of the DNC” and suggesting that the network airing the show could constitute a “major Illegal Campaign Contribution.”
Echoes of Past Legal Confrontations with ABC
Trump’s criticism was not confined to verbal jabs; he also hinted at potential legal and financial repercussions for ABC. “I think we’re going to test ABC out on this. Let’s see how we do,” Trump stated, referencing a previous legal entanglement. He recalled that “Last time I went after them, they gave me $16 Million Dollars,” suggesting that the current situation could prove “even more lucrative.” This alludes to a defamation lawsuit settlement in late 2024, where ABC News agreed to pay $15 million toward a foundation for Trump’s presidential library due to inaccurate on-air statements made by anchor George Stephanopoulos regarding legal findings against Trump. Trump’s history includes numerous lawsuits and threats against media organizations he perceives as critical, a pattern that has become a hallmark of his engagement with American news outlets.
The Controversy Leading to Kimmel’s Suspension
Jimmy Kimmel’s temporary removal from the airwaves stemmed from remarks he made during a monologue on September 10, 2025, following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel had suggested that “many in Maga land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk” and criticized the movement’s alleged attempts to politicize the tragedy. The comments drew swift backlash from conservative circles. The situation escalated when Brendan Carr, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman appointed by Trump, publicly urged ABC and its affiliates to take action against Kimmel, warning of potential “additional work for the FCC.” This intervention was widely viewed by critics as an unprecedented government overreach into broadcast content and a threat to free speech principles. In the immediate aftermath, major broadcasting groups Nexstar and Sinclair, which control a significant portion of ABC affiliates, announced they would not air “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”
Kimmel’s Return and Defense of Free Expression
Upon returning to the air on September 23, Kimmel addressed the controversy in an emotional monologue. He clarified that he never intended to make light of Kirk’s murder, stating, “I don’t think there’s anything funny about it.” Kimmel also directly confronted the pressures he faced, noting that “The president of the United States made it very clear he wants to see me and the hundreds of people who work here fired from their jobs.” He added that Trump “celebrates Americans losing their livelihoods because he can’t take a joke” and “tried his best to cancel” him. Kimmel concluded by emphasizing the importance of living in a country that allows for such a show, advocating for free expression over punitive actions.
Broader Implications for American Politics and News
The ongoing saga highlights Donald Trump’s persistent and aggressive stance against media organizations he deems critical or biased. His tactics, which include legal challenges, threats to broadcast licenses, and leveraging government influence through appointees like FCC Chairman Carr, have raised concerns about the future of press freedom in the United States. The partisan divide on these issues is stark, with Trump and his allies often framing criticism as “fake news” or politically motivated attacks, while opponents decry his actions as an “unprecedented attempt to silence disfavored speech.” The debate over Kimmel’s remarks and ABC’s response is situated within a broader context of the evolving late-night television landscape, which is grappling with shifting viewership habits and financial pressures.
The confrontation between Donald Trump and ABC over Jimmy Kimmel’s return underscores the deep-seated tensions between political power and the media in contemporary American politics. As Trump continues to challenge established norms, the media industry faces ongoing scrutiny and potential pressure, while the principles of free speech and an unfettered news environment remain central to ongoing public discourse.
